Can You Chew on a Temporary Crown? The Definitive Guide
A temporary crown, also known as a provisional crown, serves as a placeholder while your permanent crown is being fabricated in a dental lab. While it protects the prepared tooth and maintains its shape, its durability is significantly less than a permanent crown. This raises the crucial question: can you chew on a temporary crown? The short answer is: it's best to avoid chewing on it.
While seemingly sturdy, temporary crowns are made from materials like acrylic or temporary cement, making them susceptible to damage. Aggressive chewing can lead to several undesirable outcomes, undermining the whole purpose of the temporary crown. Let's delve deeper into the potential consequences and best practices.
What Happens if You Chew on Your Temporary Crown?
Chewing forcefully on a temporary crown can result in several problems:
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Fracture or Dislodgement: The crown itself might crack or break completely, leaving your prepared tooth exposed and vulnerable to further damage. This can lead to increased sensitivity, infection, or even further tooth decay. The temporary cement holding it in place can also fail, causing the crown to fall out entirely.
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Damage to the Prepared Tooth: If the crown breaks or shifts, it can leave the underlying tooth exposed and more susceptible to damage, particularly from temperature changes and food particles.
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Infection: A fractured or dislodged crown can increase the risk of bacterial infection in the exposed tooth, leading to pain and potential complications.
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Delayed Permanent Crown Placement: Repairing a damaged temporary crown, or dealing with the resulting complications from a dislodged crown, can significantly delay the process of receiving your permanent crown.
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Increased Costs: Replacing a damaged temporary crown will likely incur additional expenses.
What Foods Should You Avoid with a Temporary Crown?
To maximize the lifespan of your temporary crown and minimize the risk of damage, it's crucial to modify your diet. Avoid:
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Hard Foods: Stay away from hard candies, nuts, ice, popcorn kernels, and other foods that require significant chewing force.
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Sticky Foods: Sticky candies, caramel, and taffy can pull or dislodge the temporary crown.
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Tough Foods: Avoid chewing on fibrous foods like steak or raw carrots, which could exert excessive pressure on the crown.
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Chewing Gum: The sticky nature of chewing gum can damage or displace the temporary crown.
How Long Do Temporary Crowns Last?
Temporary crowns are designed to last only for a few weeks, until your permanent crown is ready. Their lifespan can vary depending on individual oral habits and the type of material used. However, proper care significantly extends their longevity.
What Should I Do If My Temporary Crown Breaks or Falls Out?
If your temporary crown breaks or falls out, contact your dentist immediately. Don't attempt to re-cement it yourself. Improper re-cementing can worsen the situation and potentially damage your tooth. Your dentist will assess the situation and determine the best course of action, possibly providing a temporary replacement until the permanent crown is ready.
Can I Brush and Floss with a Temporary Crown?
Yes, you should maintain your regular oral hygiene routine even with a temporary crown. Gently brush and floss around the crown, but avoid excessive pressure that could damage it.
In conclusion, while you can technically "chew" on a temporary crown, it's strongly advised to avoid forceful chewing and stick to a soft-food diet. Doing so minimizes the risk of damage and ensures a smoother transition to your permanent crown. Prioritizing gentle chewing and diligent oral hygiene significantly increases the chances of a successful temporary crown experience.
